Dr. Ranit Mishori‘s Stay Healthy column reminds readers that the recent controversy over mammograms should not distract women from the convincing evidence that diet, weight and physical activity make a big difference in lowering risk.

Includes a nice quote from AICR Director of Research Susan Higginbotham, PhD, RD.

According to a new report published in the journal Cancer, the number of deaths in the United States from colon cancer could drop significantly in the next decade due to improved screening and treatment. In the past 10 years, the death rate has dropped 20% according to the report. By 2020, the researchers predict, the death rate will be one half of what it was in 2000.

This is good news, but colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers according to David S. Alberts, MD . Diet and physical activity play an important role in lowering cancer risk and Dr. Alberts believes this is a message everyone should hear.

AICR recommends that Americans focus on incorporating healthy habits to lower their risk for developing cancer. Eating a mostly plant-based diet, limiting red meat to less than 18 oz per week, exercising at least 30 minutes daily and maintaining a healthy weight are ways to reduce risk for cancer as well as other chronic diseases.